WARRINGTON Wolves have confirmed the signing of rugby union winger Taylor Prell, aged 20.
Prell joins from Rugby Union and Yorkshire Carnegie. He joined Carnegie as the Junior Academy Player of the Year after an incredible campaign that had seen him win the Under-18 FIRA European Championships with England. He made his first-team debut in 2014 going on to have made over 30 appearances.
He’s played at representative level too, targeting 10 appearances for England U18s. He was also selected for the England Under-20s to play in the Six Nations, February 2016 against Scotland.
He recently joined the Wolves on trial playing in the Reserves game against Hull FC. This was his first game of Rugby League and he impressed the performance team crossing for four tries in the first half; earning himself a first-team contract until November 2018.
Head of coaching and rugby Tony Smith said: “Taylor’s been training with the first team for the last two to three weeks and has fitted in well. He’s popular amongst the boys and is a nice young man who’s working hard to secure his future. I’m looking forward to working with him.
“We’ve identified Taylor as a really strong candidate for a Super League position. He’s had one trial game for us against Hull in the Reserves where he scored four tries but it’s not only that, it’s the way he’s applied himself in training and in video sessions. He’s shown on the training park that he’s able to pick up our game – which is a big ask for someone who’s played another sport. He’s shown enough in the time he’s been with us to suggest that he’s going to be a very good Super League player of the future. He has the ability, skill and resources to fit into our game, and that’s been proved first hand.”
Prell added: “I’ve always liked Rugby League and enjoyed watching it and with my contract being up I thought it was an opportunity to have a switch of codes. I’ve always thought Warrington were a really good side with some great players, especially with them finishing as League Leaders last year. Tony Smith is a really top bloke and he’s offered his guidance if I need it. He’s very easy to talk to and definitely knows his stuff. I’ve settled in really well as the coaches and players have been really nice and made me feel very welcome.
“Its’ a lovely set-up at Padgate too. I’d say those tries in my first run-out were beginners luck! I enjoyed it. It was a lot different for me but a lot of fun as well. Ultimately I’d love to reach the top as everyone wants to play for England and represent their country – that would be my highest aim – but I’d love to get a run-out for the first team this season too.”
